[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/IjuWgap.png[/img][/center][@Fabricant451] [@Solace] [@Vertigo]

Astrid grinned up over her drink at the new arrivals. So she wasn't the only one to bend the rules in terms of dress code. Holly, Nordrin and Sawyer did so with style. As Holly struck up a conversation, Astrid nodded. While the venue wasn't what she'd call nice - a more fitting word would be tacky - the company and the alcohol made up for it. [color=FFFF19]"Yep, the drinks certainly are!"[/color] She swirled the cocktail, which shimmered pink and blue like a galaxy in a glass.

Overhearing Sawyer's comment, she chuckled. [color=FFFF19]"Hey, anything caffeinated is good. As Holly can attest. Motor fuel is motor fuel."[/color] While she hadn't opted for a caffeinated drink this time, Aurora Jungle Juice was good stuff too, and its glow fit the space-age persona she put up even around friends.

As something caught Sawyer's attention, she looked over. A Snom, paler than average, climbed up Mika's back and peered over his shoulder. [color=FFFF19]"Oh, cute! What's his na-"[/color]

"Raaaaaiiiii!" Comet scampered in front of Mika and the Snom, making her cheeks and tail glow bright yellow in a bid for attention. With a strained laugh, Astrid stood and pet the Raichu on the head.

[color=FFFF19]"It's ok, we haven't forgotten you. Just saying hi to the new guy."[/color] Crouching, she ruffled Comet's fur in the way she usually liked, but the Raichu simply glared over her shoulder at the Snom, grumbling to herself. [color=FFFF19]"Ehh, sorry about that."[/color] Astrid turned her gaze to Mika. [color=FFFF19]"Comet still has her insecurities."[/color]

For the nth time, she regretted having used that Thunder Stone. Comet had been overjoyed at her new form at first, but neither of them had expected audiences' interest in her to dwindle so much. If only there was a way to help her get her confidence back. [color=FFFF19]"If you ask me, Raichus need more love."[/color] Someone like Mika, who appreciated all Pokemon, would understand.